In a tense and tightly contested match at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Senegal secured their spot in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) semifinals with a 1-0 victory over the hosts, Uganda. The win was sealed by Oumar Ba’s 61st-minute goal, which proved to be the only strike of the match.
The game started cautiously, with both sides initially focusing on defense. Senegal threatened early in the 3rd minute, as Libasse Gueye forced a smart save from Uganda’s goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa. Uganda responded with some attacking moves from Allan Okello and Mugweri Kizito, but they couldn’t create any real danger for Senegal’s keeper Arona Diouf.
The first half ended with neither team able to break the deadlock, although both sides picked up yellow cards—Uganda’s Herbert Achai and Senegal’s Moussa Cissé.
In the second half, Uganda pushed forward with more intensity, attacking down the wings in search of a goal. However, Senegal’s defense remained solid, absorbing the pressure. In the 61st minute, Oumar Ba scored the game’s only goal. A cross from the left was perfectly controlled by Ba, who fired home from inside the box to give Senegal the lead.
Uganda, energized by the home crowd, launched a series of attacks in the hope of finding an equalizer. Despite enjoying possession and pressure, they were unable to break down Senegal’s well-organized defense. Substitute Layousse almost sealed the win for Senegal in the 80th minute but his shot went just wide.
As time ticked away, Uganda’s frustration grew. Senegal slowed down the game expertly, and the referee finally blew for full-time after four minutes of stoppage time, confirming Senegal’s progression to the semifinals.
Uganda’s elimination marked the end of East Africa’s hopes in the tournament, as Kenya and Tanzania had already been knocked out the day before. Despite a strong showing from the Cranes, they were unable to overcome Senegal’s defense.
Senegal will now face Madagascar in the semifinals, with the Island nation having knocked out Kenya in their quarterfinal.
Key Moments:
Senegal’s solid defense stood firm throughout the match, with Arona Diouf rarely tested.
Oumar Ba’s 61st-minute strike was the match-winner, making the difference in an otherwise evenly matched game.
Uganda’s attacking efforts, led by Allan Okello and Mugweri Kizito, lacked the final touch to break through Senegal’s defense.
